Hibachi Time: 2026 Guard Alijah Arenas
‘Nex Play Podcast founder and Rising Scout Pablo Cong takes a look into the game of Alijah Arenas: The baby faced SoCal kid with an elite game and NBA genetics.
Meet Alijah Arenas, a 6’6” point guard from the class of 2026, currently playing for the Compton Magic and attending Chatsworth High School in California. Despite his young age, Alijah is already making waves in the basketball world with his impressive skill and high basketball IQ. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Alijah a rising star in the world of high school basketball.
Physical Attributes
One of the first things that stands out about Alijah is his wiry frame and long arms, which suggest that he has a lot of room to grow physically as he continues to mature. These physical attributes give Alijah an advantage on the court, allowing him to cover more ground and excel on both ends of the court.
Basketball IQ
Another key attribute that sets Alijah apart from other players is his high basketball IQ. He has an innate feel for the game and is able to read defenses making quick decisions on the court. The game seems to have slowed down for him already, as he is able to effectively create space for himself off the dribble, and get a shot off or find open teammates for easy baskets.
Shooting Ability
Alijah’s shooting ability is also impressive, both from beyond the arc and in the midrange. He’s a proficient spot-up shooter, but his ability to hit shots while on the move sets him apart from other players. He has a smooth and effortless shooting motion, which allows him to shoot over defenders with ease. This makes him a threat both inside and outside the paint, keeping defenders on their toes and allowing him to score from anywhere on the court.
Penetration and Court Vision
In addition to his shooting ability, Alijah is also able to penetrate the defense and make plays in the paint. He uses his tight ball-handling skills and length to get past defenders and execute a smooth floater or pull-up shot. He also exhibits good court vision and is willing to distribute the ball to his teammates, making him a well-rounded player who can score and facilitate the offense.
Summary
Overall, Alijah Arenas is a young player, with an advanced skill set, which should keep him in the conversation of top players. His development will be closely monitored as he progresses throughout his playing career. His impressive skill, NBA name and game make him a must watch player regardless of high school class.
